Spring Mattress vs Foam Mattress

The one question we get from our customers time and time again is 'Should I buy a spring or foam mattress?'. Well, let me ask you this... Do you like milk in your coffee and do you take it with or without sugar? The answer to these random questions, which are totally unrelated to the topic, will differ from one individual to the next. This is exactly the case when it comes to choosing either a spring- or foam mattress. It will all depend on your individual needs and preferences.

When you start the process of buying a new bed set or mattress, you need to decide if you like a soft feel to your mattress or if you prefer a firm feel. Even if you need a sturdier supports structure, it is still possible to get, for instance, a firm mattress core with a specific comfort layer that will give you a plush feel when you lie down on your bed.

With the evolving technology in the bedding industry, there are so many options available to you. Different support structures can be combined with various top layer to give you just the right feel. The best advice I could give you is to do it Goldilocks style and try out a few different mattresses until you find the perfect combination! :-)

Spring Mattresses

Spring mattresses or coil mattresses, as some people know it, have definitely stood the test of time as they are reliable and durable and probably the type of mattress that everyone is familiar with. Designs of the inner-spring systems have evolved over the years and now offer the traditional Bonnell Coil, Continuous Coils, Pocket Springs and then various adaptations to these by different suppliers.

Mattresses with inner-spring supports cores are generally cheaper than most foam mattresses, depending on other elements added to the mattress, as they are mass produced by many well-known brands. Due to the open design, the mattress is breathable, which means that the mattress will generally sleep cooler than a foam mattress. This feature is not always a good thing as this design tend to attract more dust mites over time than all-foam mattresses.

Traditional structures such as the Bonnell Coil and Continuous Coils do not absorb movement from your partner. This means that if you have a partner who is tossing and turning the whole night, you will not be getting any sleep either. Pocket Springs, on the other hand, are individual coils covered with a fabric pocket and due to their ability to move independently will eliminate most of the movement.

Generally, springs support systems do not give you the same conforming abilities that foam mattresses do but this can be resolved by choosing a mattress with either a memory foam of latex comfort layer.

Foam Mattresses

Foam mattresses are generally firmer than their spring counterparts and offer proper posture support, which is perfect if you suffer from backaches or other medical conditions. Cloud Nine, which is one of South Africa's leading bedding brands, only manufacture foam mattresses which are all endorsed by the Chiropractic Association of South Africa.

Normal foam on its own will generally distribute your body weight evenly, depending on the density. This ability, combined with a preferred comfort layer, will give you proper support and ensure the correct spinal alignment throughout the night.

Foam mattresses absorb movement, meaning no partner disturbance, which a definite plus! Due to the dense construction, dust mites are also less likely to infest your mattress. This will keep your mattress more hygienic for longer.

Conclusion

As mentioned in the intro, there is no right or wrong answer to this frequently asked question. By the facts mentioned above, you might feel that a foam mattress is a more suitable option but this type of mattress has a very unique feel to it that many people just do not like.

If you buy a decent spring mattress, combined with the right comfort layer, you will pretty much get the same support and comfort than with a foam equivalent.

Buy now, Pay later

Need help choosing a bed?

Contact us

Want exclusive offers?

Want exclusive offers? Of course you do!

South Africa's Trusted Bed Shop

As South Africa's first and oldest online bed shop, we take pride in our exceptional service and quality products to offer our clients a seamless online shopping experience. Choose from a wide range of mattress brands, futons, sleeper couches, linen and other bedroom furniture to find what you need at Beds Online.